Friday Morning Brief July 17, 2026

Written By Michael Avella

Member Spotlight

Alicia Hyndman

This week, Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman joins us to discuss her district, her previous work as an educator, and some of her priorities that she worked on this year. Before being elected to the Assembly, she was heavily involved in advocating for a more equitable public education for her community. Currently, she is the Chair of Higher Education and a member of various committees, including on Education, Rules, and Ways and Means.

What district do you represent?
I represent the 29th Assembly District in Queens.

If I were visiting your district, what landmarks or places would you recommend?
We have the world-famous Roy Wilkins Park in the northern part of the district, which features beautiful gardens and a pool. We also have the historic community of St. Albans, where many legendary artists and entertainers lived, including James Brown and Lena Horne. There are several historic homes throughout that neighborhood. Another great destination is Archie Spigner Park. Overall, the district has a rich history and many places that reflect the cultural legacy of Southeast Queens.

What kind of music do you enjoy?
I'm an old-school hip-hop fan. A Tribe Called Quest, LL Cool J, and my all-time favorite, Rakim, are at the top of my list. LL Cool J and A Tribe Called Quest are both from Queens, so there's definitely hometown pride there.

What's your favorite New York sports team?
I'm a longtime Giants fan, and I'm also a Knicks fan. And yes, I'm a Mets fan. I became a fan during the 1986 championship season, and I've stuck with them ever since. I have plenty of Mets memorabilia at home.

What was your profession before being elected to the Assembly?
I worked for the New York State Education Department in the area of proprietary schools, overseeing non-degree-granting institutions such as barber schools, cosmetology schools, nail technician programs, ultrasound programs, and similar career-training programs.


At the same time, I volunteered on my local Community Education Council because my children attended public schools. That volunteer experience gave me tremendous insight into public education. It also introduced me to many elected officials and ultimately inspired me to run for office. Between my work at the State Education Department and my service on the Community Education Council, I felt well prepared for the transition to the Assembly.

As Chair of the Higher Education Committee, what were some of your priorities this year?
Access to higher education has always been my top priority. I'm a proud SUNY graduate, and I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to pursue higher education.


One accomplishment this year was expanding certain opportunities to students enrolled in associate degree programs at four-year CUNY institutions. We also expanded access for adults aged 25 to 55 who already have a degree but want to return to school to pursue a nursing degree, helping address our state's nursing shortage.


I hope we can continue expanding those opportunities into other high-demand career fields. People change careers throughout their lives, and higher education should provide pathways for them to do so. Whether you're a GED graduate, a parent returning to school, or someone looking for a second career, it's never too late. My father was a great example of that, and it's one of the reasons I'm so passionate about this work.

Are there local issues you're focusing on?
Flooding has become one of the biggest concerns in my district. There's an area between Hillside Avenue and Jamaica Avenue that was historically the site of a pond. Because of its geography, it's shaped almost like a bowl. During the major flooding in September 2021, and again during the recent rainstorms, homes were flooded up to the first floor, even though they're nowhere near a major body of water. I want to see real resources dedicated to helping those homeowners, including exploring voluntary home buyouts where appropriate. Unfortunately, these severe storms are becoming more common, and we need long-term solutions.


Transportation is another ongoing priority, along with ensuring we have strong schools. We're also working on foreclosure prevention because some ZIP codes in my district have been among the hardest-hit. Many families don't realize there are programs available to help with mortgage payments or rising water bills. Sometimes people are hesitant to ask for help, but we encourage residents to contact our office to learn about available resources.


Following the tragic shooting of Jaden Pierre, another major priority has been investing in youth programming. Now that the budget has been completed, we're working to secure funding for after-school and weekend programs that give young people constructive activities, keep them engaged, and create opportunities through recreation, mentorship, and employment.

What advice would you give young people who want to get involved in politics?
I never imagined I'd end up here, so my advice is to first focus on getting your education, whatever field you choose. The Assembly is made up of people from all kinds of professional backgrounds.


Stay informed about what's happening in your community. You don't have to watch the news all day, but follow local news on your phone and know what's happening where you live.


There are many ways to get involved. You can intern for an elected official, volunteer with civic organizations, serve on a community board, help with after-school programs, or volunteer on weekends. Public service isn't about glamour or making a fortune, it's about serving your community. If that's your motivation, you'll find your path.

Any final comments?
As a single mother who raised two children through the public school system, I hope my story shows young people that anything is possible. I've always had a heart for service and for giving back to my community. It was never about making a lot of money — it was about making a difference. Looking back, I truly believe this is the best job I've ever had because I get to help people every day, and I genuinely love what I do.


Are you a public official or staffer that would like to be featured in our spotlight? If so, reach out to your favorite D&A team member or contact us at team@dickinsonavella.comto set up an interview!

Last Two Remaining Legislative Primaries Conclude

On Wednesday, David Siffert and Patrick Martinez were declared the victors of their respective Democratic primaries after manual recounts that lasted more than 3 weeks after the June 13th primary. Although the BOE has not yet provided the final vote totals of either race, Siffert seems to have won by 15 votes in the primary for outgoing Assemblymember Deb Glick’s Manhattan-based district, and Martinez seems to have won by just 7 votes for outgoing Assemblymember Steven Raga’s Queens-based district. 

Siffert, who is expected to win the November general election, would be the first nonbinary lawmaker in the Legislature. While Siffert’s opponent, Jeannine Kiely, was also seen as a progressive and endorsed by Glick, Rep. Jerry Nadler, and Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Siffert was an early advocate for increasing taxes on the wealthy and was endorsed by Senator Jabari Brisport and Assemblymember Emily Gallagher. “This community has been my home for 20 years, and it’s my favorite place in the world,” Siffert said. 

Martinez, who defeated former NYPD detective Shamsul Haque, is the nephew of former Queens County Party Chair Joe Crowley and is expected to win the November general election. Although Haque has been seen as an ally of NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, he was not endorsed by him but was endorsed by US Senator Bernie Sanders and ran as a progressive. However, Martinez has been endorsed by the Queens Democratic Party, Rep. Nydia Velázquez, Assemblymember Catalina Cruz, and several unions. “Whether you voted for me or not, I will represent all of you: every family, every block, and every corner of this district,” said Martinez. 

Siffert and Martinez’s primaries were two of the remaining races that were still contested. With their races finally concluded, many of the candidates who have won the primaries, including several incumbents, will face a contested general election in November. 

Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

EXECUTIVE UPDATES

Yesterday, Hochul announced the completion of a combined $110 million public-private Advanced Research Center in Niskayuna, Schenectady County. The center is expected to support clean technology research focused on electrification, decarbonization, carbon dioxide removal, alternative fuels, grid modernization, and other advanced energy technologies, creating up to 75 new full-time jobs. In addition to supporting advanced and emerging technologies in the state, the center supports the state’s Climate Agenda to transition to a renewable, green economy. “[This] continued investment in the Capital Region is helping drive innovation, create good jobs and advance the technology we need to power our state and our economy for the long term,” said Hochul.

Additionally, Hochul announced the launch of the Semiconductor Manufacturing Workforce Training Incentive Program to attract and train workers to support the state’s growing semiconductor industry. Administered by ESD, the program is expected to offset the costs of training employees for high-demand manufacturing positions for eligible semiconductor manufacturers and manufacturing businesses. To also support the state’s Climate Agenda, eligibility for semiconductor manufacturers will depend on their compliance with the state’s environmental requirements. “This new workforce training tax credit will help manufacturers develop the highly skilled workforce they need while creating new opportunities for New Yorkers to build careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries,” said Hochul.

On Monday, Hochul announced the disbursement of $6.3 million to seven mental health clubhouses outside of NYC. Administered by OMH, the awards are expected to expand clubhouse programs outside of NYC to support their role in addressing opioid use disorder while also helping patients with social support, employment resources, and life training skills. The program builds upon Hochul’s commitment to increasing investment in combatting opioid use disorder and is part of the $196 million investment for mental health in this year's Enacted Budget. “Clubhouses provide a safe environment where New Yorkers grappling with mental health challenges can voluntarily get support from people who have experienced and navigated them firsthand,” said Hochul.

Earlier this week, Hochul announced that the state’s 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits are accepting proposals from eligible applicants. Under the program, up to $58 million in 9% Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, $10 million in New York State Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, and more than $200 million in State Capital subsidy loan programs would be available for applicants. Administered by HCR, the programs are expected to help support Hochul’s $25 billion Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations. Specifically, the programs are intended to increase housing supply throughout the state, revitalize neighborhoods, and enhance local economic development initiatives. “These $270 million in targeted investments will be a critical part of our five-year Housing Plan and go hand-in-glove with our affordability agenda, allowing developers to build and preserve affordable housing faster and more efficiently in every corner of the state,” said Hochul.

Last week, Hochul announced the next phase of development for Micron’s $100 billion semiconductor manufacturing campus in Central New York, with the first foundations laid. With the project moving forward on an accelerated timeline due to coordination among state agencies, Micron, contractors, local partners, and labor, the campus is expected to create 50,000 good-paying jobs and support tens of thousands of construction jobs, as well as bring an unprecedented amount of economic growth to the area. In total, when complete, the project is expected to support the state’s growing advanced and emerging technology industry sector. “With up to 50,000 jobs on the horizon, we are building the future of American memory manufacturing right here in Central New York, and we are building it fast,” said Hochul.

Additionally, Hochul announced the official launch of a project to study and address the transportation needs of northern Onondaga County to ensure the area can support the expected economic and population growth resulting from Micron’s investment. The “Central New York Forward” would be jointly administered by the state DOT and the federal FHA and is expected to hold several community engagements for a major transportation project to improve traffic flow and enhance safety on several key roadways. In addition to supporting the County’s infrastructure needs, the project is expected to take into account local community needs and ensure that their voices are heard in the expected local economic transformation. “We need everyone working together to bring Central New York Forward, and this aptly named effort will ensure the community has ample opportunities to help craft a vision for a highway system that can accommodate the unparalleled growth unfolding throughout the region,” said Hochul.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

Senator Rachel May Considers Running for Chair of Onondaga County Dems

Earlier this week, it was reported that Senator Rachel May is considering a run to be the next Chair of the Onondaga County Democratic Committee. Explaining her reasoning, May said, “I really want to see some change in how we do things in the Democratic Committee” due to the recent primary upsets of the party’s endorsed candidates. This comes as the party-endorsed Assemblymember Bill Magnarelli lost his primary to DSA-endorsed candidate Mo Brown, and as Party Chairman Max Ruckdeschel intends to step down as Chair in September. May explained that if she does run for Chair, she would seek to address the “giant time lag between how the party operates and what Democrats want.” 

Senator Luis Sepúlveda Reiterates Not Resigning from Judiciary Chair

Amidst calls to resign, Senate Judiciary Chair Luis Sepúlveda reiterated that he will not resign and explained that he has been “vilified.” The calls to resign come after some have alleged that Sepúlveda used his political influence to complain to court administration officials about a sitting housing court judge who ruled against him. However, Sepúlveda explained that he has “not committed any ethical violation” and that he cannot comment on the allegations, explaining, “I have restrictions, attorney-client privilege, things of that nature, that I will never violate.” Sepúlveda said that he will continue to lead as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee and that he is “very, very content with what I do as the chair of this committee.”

Senator Pat Fahy Introduces Bill to Expand Access to Adaptive Aquatic Safety

After a 7-year-old child with autism was found dead in a pool after a multiple-day search in the Capital Region, Senate Disabilities Chair Pat Fahy introduced a bill that would expand access to swimming lessons for children diagnosed with autism. Specifically, the bill would make swimming lessons for children living with disabilities eligible for coverage under Medicaid home and community-based services. The bill would also require lifeguards to undergo specialized training to assist better those living with autism and disabilities. Fahy explained that the bill would ensure that the state is “taking proactive steps to prevent future tragedies” and that “autistic children and those living with disabilities are 160 times more likely to die from drowning than their peers.” Assemblymember Charles Fall is expected to sponsor the same-as in the Assembly.

Hudson Valley Lawmakers Criticizes Proposed ICE Facility

Joined by local lawmakers in Orange County and Rep. Pat Ryan, Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson joined a rally in opposition to a proposed ICE detention center in Newburgh. Jacobson criticized the proposed site as an attempt to instill fear in the local community and cited the inclusion of the Dignity Not Detention bill in this year’s Enacted Budget as prohibiting the construction of the facility. "The state, counties and local governments cannot contract with ICE, including hosting detention facilities or renting out jails,” explained Jacobson. 

The proposed facility has drawn backlash from lawmakers representing the area, including Senator James Skoufis and GOP Senator Rob Rolison. “The local government, at the very least, should have the ability to engage in a discussion, and that currently hasn’t happened. The Town of Newburgh doesn’t support this, and neither do I,” Rolison previously said. Hochul has also criticized the proposal, along with two other proposals across the state, and sent a letter to the US DHS asking under what authority they are building the proposed facilities. “The local government, at the very least, should have the ability to engage in a discussion, and that currently hasn’t happened. The Town of Newburgh doesn’t support this, and neither do I,” Hochul wrote in the letter.

State Comptroller Warns of State's Fiscal Environment

In a report, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli warned that the $277 billion Enacted Budget may be vulnerable to potential federal actions and economic challenges. “The state’s finances remain highly exposed to federal actions and potential economic downturns,” explained DiNapoli. Additionally, DiNapoli warned, “Major national and international developments risk affecting New York’s economy, with downstream impacts on tax revenues and fiscal stability.” For future Budget negotiations, DiNapoli suggested that the state address rising debt financing, as the state may reach its debt limit by around FY2031, and limit state spending, since the state may not have enough revenue. By FY2030, the state is projected to have a cumulative budget gap of $31.7 billion.

Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Hochul Signs Data Center Moratorium EO 

Earlier this week, Hochul announced a new Executive Order implementing the nation-first statewide moratorium on new data centers. The EO comes a month after the Legislature passed the Responsible Data Centers Act, which also includes a moratorium on new data centers. However, the EO will cover data centers with the capacity to use 50 megawatts of energy or more, while the bill would cover those with the capacity to use 20 megawatts or more. Hochul explained that she signed the EO to take action now while she reviews the bill. “We don’t believe there is a conflict between the innovation economy and our desire to just pause and make sure that as we lean into the future of how we power AI that we do it right,” said Hochul. Heastie said that he does not believe Hochul will veto the bill because of the EO, saying, “In my exchanges with her, this is not by any means that she’s looking to veto the bill, she said she absolutely wants to continue to talk about it.”

ELECTION UPDATES

Hochul to Campaign on Long Island

With the latest Siena/Newsday poll showing Hochul trailing GOP candidate and current Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman by only 5 points in Nassau County and leading over Blakeman by 9 points in Suffolk County, many observers noted that Hochul and the Democratic Party will start campaigning more on Long Island. Recently as last week, Hochul campaigned on Long Island and reportedly opened 14 field offices. However, Blakeman and Long Island Republicans remain optimistic, with Assembly Republican Leader Ed Ra saying, “I fully suspect he’s going to run pretty strong in both Nassau and Suffolk.” Ra also pointed to recent GOP wins on Long Island, explaining, “A lot of gains have been made at local levels in both Nassau and Suffolk counties. You look at the Senate delegations and Assembly delegations; they’ve been pretty strongly Republican.”

State GOP Courts Jewish Voters Ahead of November General

Starting this week, the state GOP and its Chair, Ed Cox, sent an open letter to Jewish communities as part of their outreach to Jewish voters. In the letter, the GOP criticized the Democratic Party, alongside Hochul and Mayor Mamdani, for being antagonistic towards the Jewish community. “We watch with sadness as the Democratic Party, which alleges to stand for marginalized groups, spirals into that ugliest and oldest hatred, anti-Semitism,” the letter states. Additionally, the state GOP has launched a new digital ad campaign to help court Jewish voters. Cox alleges that the Democratic Party has aligned itself with the DSA and that they have “made hostility not only to Israel but also to everyday Jewish Americans a litmus test. Republicans are stating, clearly: you have a home with us.”

Rep. Lawler Challenges Democratic Challenger Cait Conley to Early Debates

In an upcoming contentious general election in November, GOP Rep. Mike Lawler challenged his Democratic nominee, Cait Conley, to a series of debates. Although congressional debates usually occur weeks before Election Day, Lawler’s campaign explained that early debate is necessary due to the election's competitiveness, national media attention, and expected high spending in the race. "We have an opportunity to set a standard for transparency and substance that other high-profile campaigns around the country would be pressed to emulate,” Lawler explained and requested six debates, with the earliest occurring before July ends. Conley rebuked Lawler for using the debate challenge as a “political stunt,” but she looks “forward to our campaigns finding a time to debate and discuss the real issues facing voters.”

OTHER UPDATES

DOH Requests 1115 Medicaid Waiver

Last week, the DOH released a 52-page requestto the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to extend the $7.5 billion Section 1115 Medicaid Waiver. Previously approved by the Biden Administration in 2024 as an amendment to the state Medicaid waiver under Section 1115, it has allowed the state to provide various social services with federal Medicaid funding. While the Trump Administration has opposed states using “creative interpretations” of their Section 1115 authority to obtain federal Medicaid matching funds for initiatives, Medicaid Director  Amir Bassiri said he had “great conversations” about the renewal and that he is “cautiously optimistic.” The extension application comes as the federal government has criticized the state’s Medicaid program for rampant fraud.

NYC Lawmakers Considers Banning Horse-Drawn Carriages

After a recent incident in Central Park that led to the death of a tourist, city lawmakers, including Mayor Mamdani, Council Speaker Julie Menin, and Council Majority Leader Shaun Abreu, announced their support for transitioning away from horse-drawn carriages in Central Park. In her announcement on Tuesday, Menin gave her support for Romanch’s Law after Abreu gave his support last week. Mamdani explained that he supports the “spirit of the bill” but raised concerns about how it will impact transportation workers. Currently, the bill is heavily opposed by the Transport Workers Union, which argues that banning the industry would be harmful and that job transition programs would be inadequate. Mamdani said he will work with the Council on the issue, saying, “We look forward to working with the Council to address those concerns as we move forward on an important issue for New Yorkers.”

Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

AG Tish James Sues PFAS Manufacturers

Last week, a lawsuitled by Tish Jameswas filed in Albany County Supreme Court alleging that several PFAS manufacturers failed to adequately warn consumers about PFAS in their products, including cookware, food packaging, clothing, and carpet. Additionally, the suit alleges that the companies engaged in deceptive and abusive business practices, harming the state's economy and consumers. "Defendants have failed, and continue to fail, to adequately warn their consumers and the public of the known and foreseeable risks that follow from the intended use and foreseeable misuse of consumer products containing defendants’ PFAS,” the suit alleges.

FIRM SPOTLIGHT

D&A's SVP Tina Haxhillari was recently named to City & State 2026 Who's Who In Insurance!!! Tina's excerpt below: 


With a book of business filled with insurance clients, Eglantina Haxhillari played a role this year in shaping major auto insurance and fraud reforms that dominated New York’s state legislative session. Her lobbying efforts helped to bring about a new law targeting fraud and excessive litigation, with the aim of reducing insurance costs for New Yorkers. Another objective for Haxhillari is creating an environment to bring more insurance companies to New York to open up consumer choice. She has also supported title insurance clients, focusing on deed theft prevention.

Other Interesting Friday Reads

The Permanent Electorate - by Maeve Buckley Andersen

How Jordan Wright held off the DSA - City & State New York

State lawmakers eye LGBTQ+ caucus in Albany - City & State New York

Why Mamdani won’t take off that damn suit - City & State New York

Several names floating around for next N.Y. majority leader - Spectrum News One

New York Democrats confront brutal redistricting referendum math - POLITICO

Do NYC schools need a redistribution of PTA wealth? - Gothamist

Big Business Is Leasing Record Office Space in Mamdani’s New York | The City Reporter — NYC News

NY Democrats challenge Trump's denial of aid for February blizzard - Newsday

Onondaga County DA investigating fraud allegations in Democratic primary - syracuse.com

House G.O.P. Releases Budget to Unlock $95 Billion for Iran War and SAVE Act - The New York Times

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